Fresh Meat Inflation Rises Again
Meat and Poultry price inflation continues in May
The AIMS Fresh Meat and Poultry Monthly inflation report published today (Wednesday 28th May) shows that across the 4 species covered; beef, lamb, pork and chicken, that overall prices have nudged ahead by 0.9% for the month 30th April to 27th May. This is against the BRC’s latest fresh food inflation figure of 1.8%.
“In the BRC food inflation figures published yesterday (Tuesday 27th May) CEO Helen Dickinson noted that “red meat eaters may have noticed their steak got a little more expensive as wholesale beef prices increased”” said Tony Goodger, Head of Communications at AIMS.
“With two bank holidays during our reporting period coupled with prolonged periods of warm weather our analysis of beef steak and lean mince shows an average of +3.71% for the month whilst with the Easter beef roasting joint promotions now passed, these dropped back by 4p/kg (-0.27%)” Tony continued.
“However, whist BRC have noted fresh food inflation increasing to 2.4% year on year in May, the four species covered in AIMS’ report have risen collectively by 11.32% (+£1.54kg)”.
“Beef and Lamb have shown the biggest rises with increased demand from an ever-growing customer base both in the domestic and global markets, while pork and chicken have seen increased input costs from feed, energy, labour, insurance and the ongoing need to improve site biosecurity”, said Tony.
“I fully expect the upward year on year trend to continue especially as the impact of the changes to the minimum wage and national insurance really begin to kick in. That said, there are still some great value and versatile lines available such as pork fillet and mince and British chicken drumsticks and legs”.
Beef: Steaks Sizzle, Roasts Retreat
The early summer heat and double bank holidays drove a surge in BBQ favourites:
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Beef Fillet Steak rose by +4.92% month-on-month
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Lean Mince jumped +4.07%
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Meanwhile, Roasting Joints fell slightly (-0.27%) as Easter promotions faded
Year-on-Year Inflation: Up Over 11%
Looking at the bigger picture, AIMS reported a +11.32% increase year-on-year across the four key species – equivalent to +£1.54/kg. Beef and lamb led the charge, fuelled by growing domestic and export demand.
Pork and chicken also edged upward, driven by ongoing challenges:
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Rising feed, labour, energy, and insurance costs
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Continued investment in biosecurity measures
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Knock-on effects of minimum wage and National Insurance increases
Still Some Value to Be Found
Despite the inflation, there are still some strong value options in the market. AIMS highlights:
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Pork fillet and mince – versatile, lean, and cost-effective
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British chicken drumsticks and legs – offering quality and affordability
